The Extraordinary Orbit of Alex Ramirez

Seventh grader Alex Ramirez is curious. He wonders how satellites remain in orbit and how astronauts handle fear. More than anything, he questions when his parents and teachers will trust him to be more independent. Alex, who “take[s] medication/ that helps me/ focus,” has been in a self-contained classroom environment for students with learning differences since third grade, during which a physical altercation with his former friend Leonard resulted in Leonard’s being hospitalized. If Alex plans to work for NASA, he needs to join his fellow seventh graders in Ms. Rosef’s science class. After he musters the courage to ask if he can attend the class—and his request is granted—his self-advocacy causes a ripple effect among his peers, who yearn to explore clubs and coursework outside of their self-contained bubbles. But with new academic opportunities come new interpersonal challenges, which Paulino sensitively portrays using intimate verse. Alex’s relationship with his family as well as his Dominican and Puerto Rican heritage inform his perspective—Spanish dialogue appears throughout—while depictions of supportive adults impart an affirming undertone to this earnest debut about neurodivergent students and kids with learning differences seeking to advocate for their needs and wants. Ages 10–up. Agent: Michaela Whatnall, Dystel, Goderich & Bourret. (June)